Batting

WASHINGTON – Gallaudet University lost its first baseball game of the season as visiting Widener University took advantage of Bison miscues and won handily, 18-2, on an unseasonably warm day at Hoy Field.

The Bison (1-1) defense had an error in four consecutive innings as Widener (1-0) capitalized on the opportunities and plated six runs during the second through fifth innings. Two errors in the second inning led to the Pride's first run. The visitors scored four in the third after a Bison error began the inning.

Gallaudet starting pitcher Danny O'Donnell (Olney, Md.) was lifted after four innings of work, as he allowed six runs (two earned), eight hits, walked one and recorded five strikeouts. The Bison bullpen couldn't keep the game close as it surrendered 12 runs during a three-inning span (sixth through eighth).

Widener starting pitcher Robert Barth (1-0) had a solid season debut as he threw seven innings and allowed one run on three hits and struck out three. The Bison pushed across a run in the seventh and ninth innings.

Senior catcher Casey Hicks (Henderson, Nev.) went 1-for-4 at the plate and had a RBI in the ninth for the Bison. Fellow senior Marcus Smith (Baltimore, Md.) tallied two hits and one run in the loss.

Widener catcher Paul Shepherd was a perfect 5-for-5 as he hit a triple and picked up five RBI. Shortstop Michael Rytelewski was 4-for-4, walked twice, triple, three runs and four RBI in the win.

GU will look to put today's result behind it as the Bison welcome Muhlenberg College to Hoy Field for a non-conference doubleheader at noon.